Changes to how patients in the highest risk groups get help with COVID medicines

The way people in the highest risk groups will get help with COVID medicines is changing from 27 June. This is because we are moving from a nationally led service to one that is run locally here in Surrey.

This means that if and when any patients in the highest risk groups for COVID-19 tests positive for the virus, they should call 03000 24 0000 for assessment. This number is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

A summary of these highest risk groups is shown below, with full details available on the Government’s Department of Health and Social Care website:

• chromosomal disorders affecting the immune system, including Down’s syndrome
• certain types of cancer or have received treatment for certain types of cancer
• sickle cell disease
• certain conditions affecting their blood
• chronic kidney disease (CKD) stage 4 or 5
• severe liver disease
• had an organ transplant
• certain autoimmune or inflammatory conditions (such as rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease)
• HIV or AIDS who have a weakened immune system
• inherited or acquired conditions affecting their immune system
• rare neurological conditions: multiple sclerosis, motor neurone disease, Huntington’s disease or myasthenia gravis
• diabetes (type 1 and 2)
• a range of cardiovascular conditions,
• respiratory conditions, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Children and young people with complex life-limiting neurodisability respiratory infections

Published on 14 July 2023